Most vehicles do not have the means of hauling equipment frequently. Depending on your needs, you may want to haul some of your equipment from time to time. In that case, a hitch comes in handy. The most common hitches include class 2 and class 3 types. These two have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different scenarios. In order to make an informed choice, here is a detailed comparison of these two classes.
Definitions
A class 2 hitch is a tool that is attached to the body of a vehicle to assist in towing items from one place to the other. It has a maximum gross trailer weight of 3,500 pounds and a maximum tongue weight of 350 pounds. It is mostly suitable for day to day items such as a bicycle.
A class 3 hitch is a hauling tool with a maximum gross trailer weight of 8,000 pounds and a maximum tongue weight of 800 pounds. It is a suitable for towing bigger items such as a small boat or motorbike.
Comparison Chart
| Class 2 hitch | Class 3 hitch |
| Maximum gross trailer weight of 3,500 pounds | Maximum gross trailer weight of 8,000 pounds |
| Maximum tongue weight of 350 pounds | Maximum tongue weight of 800 pounds |
| Most suitable for hauling bicycles and small boats | Most suitable for hauling medium boats and trailers |
| Relatively cheap | Relatively expensive |
Class 2 Hitch vs Class 3 Hitch
What is the difference between a class 2 hitch and a class 3 hitch? These two models differ in terms of tongue weight, trailer weight, and affordability.
The tongue weight is the static force the trailer tongue exerts on the hitch ball.
Just like with any product, these two items have specific uses and costs. A class 2 hitch, for instance, is much more affordable that a class 3 hitch for obvious reasons. It is only good for basic and light purposes. It can tow or haul everyday items such as a bicycle, a motorcycle or a lightweight boat. It is limited to a maximum trailer weight of 3,500 pounds and a tongue weight of about 35 pounds. It is therefore made of light materials and thus much more affordable to buy.
The class 3 hitch, on the other hand, is made from heavy duty materials since it can handle tougher jobs. It is widely available as it is viewed as the standard hitch because it can carry both heavy and light equipment. It has a maximum gross trailer weight of about 8,000 pounds and a tongue weight of about 800 pounds. It is more versatile and can tow mid-sized campers or fishing boats.